On Monday, the 'Tasmania Jewels' were officially confirmed as the next team to join the WNBL, NBL team Tasmania JackJumpers under the same ownership after the Apple Isle received the league's first expansion license since the unsuccessful South East Queensland Stars in 2015/16.

The remarkable achievements of the JackJumpers since their 2021/22 debut, including playoff appearances in each of their first three seasons, have driven an increase in basketball participation in the state that Basketball Australia hopes will now motivate the next generation of young Tasmanian girls and women to embrace the sport.

“Tasmania is the Jewel of Australia and now the Jewel of the Queen Ant, becoming a formidable presence in the WNBL," said new Tasmania Jewels CEO Christine Finnegan.

“We are extremely proud to introduce a brand that we believe reflects the unique beauty of Tasmania and the unwavering strength of our team and community."

The Jewels, set to join the league in 2026/27, will be owned by asset management company Altor Capital, which acquired a controlling interest in the JackJumpers this year.

The club’s colors will be forest green and mandible yellow, shared by the JackJumpers and the upcoming men's AFL team.

Hobart-born Minnesota Lynx and Opals star Alanna Smith expressed her great pride in becoming an official ambassador for the new franchise.

“I am truly honored to be appointed as an ambassador for the Tasmania Jewels,” Smith stated in a press release.

“It means so much to finally have a WNBL team in my home state, and I look forward to supporting the team, engaging with young players, and contributing to the growth of women’s sport in Tasmania.”

Finnegan mentioned that although she hopes Smith might one day wear a Jewels jersey in the later stages of her career, the 29-year-old will "play a vital role in encouraging participation, empowering young women, and raising the profile of our club both in Tasmania and beyond."